March is National Nutrition Month! This year the theme is “Put Your Best Fork Forward” - which emphasizes that we should consider how we make healthy choices with each meal we eat.

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans help define a healthy eating pattern to meet nutrient needs and maintain a healthy body weight. Of the leading causes of death in the United States, heart disease, stroke and diabetes are strongly impacted by nutrition. Following an eating plan that focuses on vegetables and fruits, whole grains, low-fat dairy, lean proteins, and healthy fats is the first step in protecting your health against chronic disease.

If you want to learn how to protect your health and put your best fork forward, consider working with a dietitian. Check out this article about what a registered dietitian can do for you to find out the many ways working with an RDN can guide you towards healthy choices. Working with a licensed, registered dietitian nutritionist will give you a personalized experience based on scientific evidence and high standards of practice. There are many RDNs that specialize in specific areas. I focus my practice on digestive disorders and maternal and family nutrition; while there are other RDNs that focus on eating disorders, sports nutrition, weight loss, etc. Make sure to ask your preferred provider about their qualifications and specialties to make sure your RDN is a right fit for you.